Isaiah 61:1-2, "The Spirit of the Lord God is upon me; because the LORD hath anointed me to preach good tidings unto the meek; he hath sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to them that are bound; To proclaim the acceptable year of the LORD, and the day of vengeance of our God; to comfort all that mourn."


This is a prophetic utterance concerning the life and ministry of Jesus Christ.  The Spirit of God rested powerfully upon the Lord Jesus Christ.  The anointing is a reference to Jesus being the Christ (Messiah), and the anointing was for the purpose of preaching to bring about healing and liberty to the needy souls of those to whom Jesus would speak. 

What did Jesus preach?  He preached the gospel.  The good tidings in this passage are translated in the Septuagint with the Greek word "euangelisasthai" or to evangelize. The meek are those who are needy and afflicted, people who are distressed.  Do you remember the day you became distressed about sin?  The day you realized you couldn't save yourself.  The day you understood if you died in your sin you were going to spend an eternity in hell.

God ministers to our broken hearts and our bondage through the person of Christ.  Whatever your need, Jesus can help you.  Whatever is broken He can mend, and whosoever is bound, He can set free.

I'm thankful for the power of God resting upon Jesus through the Holy Spirit.  He is the only One Who can meet all our needs.

Your Friend and HIS,

Pastor Abbott

MEDITATIONS

1. Do you realize from this passage your need to be filled with the Holy Spirit? Why is this vital?

2. Is there anything in your life that needs a heavenly touch? Does anything spiritually need healing?

3. Is there some sin you are bound to? How can you find freedom from sin?